Eurofins GeneScan VIP (Verified In-House Program)
Certification
 Eurofins GeneScan VIP Certification programs recognize that many members of the agrofood community have created their own In-House control programs suited to the demands of their Clients and their supply chains, e.g. NonGM control.
A Eurofins GeneScan VIP certificate will verify that the Client is following the protocols stated in their program. The value for the Client is increased credibility in the marketplace through the independent confirmation by Eurofins GeneScan that the Client’s program is operating as advertised.
Application for VIP Certification
Clients interested in participating in a Eurofins GeneScan VIP program must meet the following requirements:
i) An In-House control program must have been operating for at least six months prior to application.
ii) The program must be documented in the form of a handbook, a manual or equivalent documentation.
Initial Suitability Assessment
Eurofins GeneScan will evaluate the existing control program in order to confirm its suitability for VIP certification. The Eurofins GeneScan auditor will propose an operational schedule for document review and audits.
Review of Client’s Program Documentation
Prior to the audit the Client will provide:
i) Documents that describe the various control measures of the program, e.g.. handbook or manual including work instructions and relevant QM documents
ii) Internal (and external) audit reports
iii) These documents should be provided far enough in advance of the audit to allow for a thorough review by the auditor.
iv) The auditor will submit a report to the Client, summarizing the documentation review. Non-Conformities, if any, will be listed, along with suggested corrective actions.
v) The Client will have 4 to 8 weeks to correct all Non-Conformities. If the Non-Conformities cannot be addressed within the time period allowed, a new application for certification (including documentation review) would be required.
Audits
a) Aim of the audits
Audits are conducted on site in order to verify the compliance of the implemented measures and actual processes with the requirements defined in the Client’s program documentation.
b) Frequency of audits
Audits are performed once a year at specified locations within the program (as defined by auditor after documentation review).
c) Outcome of audits
If Non-Conformities are identified, then Client and auditor will develop corrective actions to be implemented. The auditor will provide an audit report to the Client that documents the identified Non-Conformities and defines the necessary corrective actions needed in order to achieve certification status.
If major Non-Conformities are identified, the auditor has to follow up the implementation of the defined corrective actions. Typically, this requires a visit to confirm the correction of the Non-Conformity. These corrective actions must be implemented within the time specified by the auditor after the audit.
Certification
A Eurofins GeneScan VIP certificate will be issued after the successful audit. The certificate is valid for one year. In addition, the Client is allowed to use the VIP logo on company letters, website, delivery documentation and advertisement brochures.
Click here to read our Principles for Certification Programs
Recertification
Three months prior to expiration date of the VIP Certificate, the Client can apply for recertification.
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